The link between our diets, gut health/bacteria and the immune system has recently been making headlines. Approximately 70% of the body’s immune system is in the digestive tract. Our gut plays a major role in our mental and physical health; therefore, it is essential that our gut is healthy and strong so that we can support many different functions in our body. Kate Perry, Nutritional Therapist, explains below….

Life puts extra demands on our bodies through food additives, processed foods, stress and pollution to name but a few. Two possible reasons for poor gut health are food intolerances and allergies, which can be a reaction to chemical additives in food. The gut is the centre of our health. For those with arthritis and other autoimmune conditions, whose symptoms are created or exacerbated by poor gut health, healing the gut can reverse certain conditions. Research has revealed that a diet rich in whole and unprocessed foods will encourage the growth of good bacteria in the gut, helping to establish a strong immune system that can reduce inflammation. Foods containing high sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, can reduce inflammation and help fight disease and illness.

What is the Microbiome?

The microbiome is a community of microbes that live in our digestive system. Our guts develop a unique profile during our first years, much the same way as fingerprints. The intestinal microbiome is formed immediately after birth – from our mother. It is based in part on the microbes obtained from the birth canal and from breastfeeding. If a child is born via Caesarean section, the microbiome forms more slowly and differs from that of naturally delivered babies.

The microbiome has a key role in helping digest the foods that we eat. It keeps our immune system in check and supports brain function. To help our immune system we need to cut down our intake of processed foods, saturated fats, alcohol, sugar and caffeine as these inhibit it’s good health. If you eat sugar laden foods or foods that contain lots of additives you may experience brain fog and lack concentration, this can all be caused by a poor diet.

Poor gut health symptoms:

Skin problems like acne and flaky skin

IBS, constipation, and bloating

Nutritional deficiencies

Headaches and brain fog

Fatigue (low energy levels)

Cravings for sugar & carbohydrates

Joint pain and inflammation

Depression and anxiety

Is your body presenting any of these conditions? If so it’s time to help your gut.

Seaweed Purveyors of Pure recommend Aloe Ferrox as it is known for its natural colon cleansing benefits. It is particularly high in calcium which contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes and amino acids that assist in breaking down food.

Vitamin C is very important for our immune system and gut health!

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant in itself, which also helps regenerate other antioxidants. Together they strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation of the gut.

Our bodies cannot manufacture Vitamin C so must be obtained through diet and supplements.

Vitamin C Deficiency can present itself as:

Frequent Colds

Lack of Energy

Frequent Infections

Wild nutrition Food-Grown® Vitamin C & Bioflavonoids is a food-Grown form of Vitamin C, which provides support without the necessity for high doses.

How does gluten affect our Gut Health?

Inflammation in the gut contributes to a problem called intestinal permeability (leaky gut). Gluten is a protein naturally found in certain grains such as Barley, Wheat and Rye amongst others. It is often used as fillers in medications and supplements (also known as excipients) which are NOT found in Seaweed’s cherry-picked Wild Nutrition range. The proteins in wheat and other gluten rich foods are gut irritant and leak bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream, causing inflammation and possibly triggering reactions from the immune system, such as food sensitivities, fatigue, digestive issues and skin problems

Our bodies are truly amazing at repairing themselves when looked after properly

If we choose to eat foods that are no good for us, this will soon reflect in many different ways. If you are looking for a healthy body and mind, then feeding our engines (gut) with the correct proteins, essential fats, vitamins and minerals and good carbohydrates will make a huge difference, both short and long term.